Osler Elects François Paradis as Montréal Managing Partner
In a significant move to strengthen its leadership in Québec, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP has announced the appointment of François Paradis as the new managing partner of its Montréal office. Effective June 16, 2025, Paradis will succeed Sandra Abitan, who has led the office since 2017. Abitan will continue to serve as the head of the insolvency and restructuring practice in the region.
Paradis, a homegrown talent at Osler, joined the firm in 2001, shortly after the Montréal office opened its doors. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a trusted legal expert, specializing in business law and capital markets. His extensive experience spans corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, and governance, making him a natural fit for the managing partner role.
Known for his expertise in high-profile transactions, Paradis has represented both issuers and underwriters in public offerings for major companies such as Bausch + Lomb, Lightspeed, and Dialogue. He has also advised clients like Neptune Wellness Solutions and Acasti Pharma Inc. on complex M&A deals, showcasing his ability to navigate intricate legal landscapes.
Sandra Abitan, the outgoing managing partner, leaves a legacy of growth and success in Montréal. Under her leadership, the office has flourished, solidifying Osler’s presence in Québec. Doug Bryce, Osler’s national managing partner, praised Abitan’s contributions, noting her instrumental role in the firm’s success. He also expressed confidence in Paradis’s ability to lead, emphasizing his deep understanding of client needs and his proven track record in addressing complex legal matters.
“We are confident that François’s leadership will help us continue to deliver outstanding client service and drive the growth and success of our firm in Québec,” Bryce said. This transition underscores Osler’s commitment to leadership succession and its focus on fostering talent to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
Paradis’s appointment is part of a broader leadership evolution at Osler. Earlier this year, the firm announced Sander Duncanson as the new managing partner of its Calgary office. These changes reflect Osler’s strategic approach to maintaining strong leadership across its offices while continuing to deliver exceptional legal services.
A nationally recognized leader in capital markets and U.S./Canada cross-border legal matters, Paradis brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role. His practice spans multiple sectors, including technology, natural resources, and pharmaceuticals, further enhancing Osler’s capabilities in these areas.
As Paradis prepares to take the reins in Montréal, his focus will likely remain on driving innovation and maintaining the high standards of client service that Osler is known for. With his extensive experience and leadership acumen, he is well-positioned to guide the Montréal office into its next phase of growth.
This leadership transition highlights Osler’s ongoing investment in its people and its commitment to supporting clients in Québec. As the firm continues to evolve, Paradis’s appointment serves as a testament to its dedication to excellence and its vision for the future.
Paradis’s Expertise and Vision for the Future
François Paradis’s appointment as managing partner underscores his deep expertise in capital markets and cross-border legal matters between the U.S. and Canada. His practice spans a wide range of industries, including technology, natural resources, and pharmaceuticals, positioning him to lead Osler’s Montréal office in addressing the diverse needs of its clients.
Paradis’s track record in handling complex transactions, such as those involving Bausch + Lomb, Lightspeed, and Dialogue, demonstrates his ability to navigate high-stakes legal environments. His work on behalf of clients like Neptune Wellness Solutions and Acasti Pharma Inc. in M&A transactions further highlights his strategic acumen and ability to deliver results in intricate legal landscapes.
As Paradis steps into his new role, he is expected to build on Sandra Abitan’s legacy of growth and success. Abitan, who has led the Montréal office since 2017, will continue to play a key role as head of the insolvency and restructuring practice, ensuring continuity and stability for the firm’s clients in Québec.
Doug Bryce, Osler’s national managing partner, emphasized Paradis’s readiness for the role, noting his extensive experience in addressing complex legal matters. “We are confident that François’s leadership will help us continue to deliver outstanding client service and drive the growth and success of our firm in Québec,” Bryce said.
Paradis’s appointment is part of a broader leadership evolution at Osler. Earlier this year, the firm announced Sander Duncanson as the new managing partner of its Calgary office. These changes reflect Osler’s strategic approach to maintaining strong leadership across its offices while continuing to deliver exceptional legal services.
A nationally recognized leader in capital markets and U.S./Canada cross-border legal matters, Paradis brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role. His practice spans multiple sectors, including technology, natural resources, and pharmaceuticals, further enhancing Osler’s capabilities in these areas.
As Paradis prepares to take the reins in Montréal, his focus will likely remain on driving innovation and maintaining the high standards of client service that Osler is known for. With his extensive experience and leadership acumen, he is well-positioned to guide the Montréal office into its next phase of growth.
This leadership transition highlights Osler’s ongoing investment in its people and its commitment to supporting both its people and clients in Québec. As the firm continues to evolve, Paradis’s appointment serves as a testament to its dedication to excellence and its vision for the future.
Conclusion
François Paradis’s appointment as managing partner of Osler’s Montréal office marks a significant step in the firm’s continued growth and commitment to excellence. With his extensive experience in capital markets and cross-border legal matters, Paradis is well-equipped to lead the office into its next phase of development. His proven track record in handling complex transactions and his strategic acumen position him as a strong leader to build on Sandra Abitan’s legacy of success.
As Osler evolves its leadership across offices, Paradis’s expertise in technology, natural resources, and pharmaceuticals sectors will further strengthen the firm’s capabilities. His focus on innovation and client service aligns with Osler’s vision for the future, ensuring continued success and growth in Québec and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is François Paradis’s expertise?
François Paradis is a nationally recognized leader in capital markets and U.S./Canada cross-border legal matters. His practice spans industries such as technology, natural resources, and pharmaceuticals.
Why was François Paradis appointed as managing partner?
Paradis was appointed due to his deep expertise in handling complex transactions and his ability to navigate high-stakes legal environments. His leadership is expected to drive growth and maintain exceptional client service in Osler’s Montréal office.
How does this appointment impact Osler’s Montréal office?
The appointment of François Paradis ensures continuity and stability, building on Sandra Abitan’s legacy. It also positions the office for future growth and success in addressing the diverse needs of clients in Québec.
What are François Paradis’s priorities in his new role?
Paradis’s focus will likely remain on driving innovation, maintaining high standards of client service, and leading the Montréal office into its next phase of growth while upholding Osler’s commitment to excellence.
How does this leadership change fit into Osler’s broader strategy?
This appointment reflects Osler’s strategic approach to maintaining strong leadership across its offices. It underscores the firm’s commitment to delivering exceptional legal services and driving long-term success in Québec and beyond.
